There is always more to the story. It is difficult for most comprehensive reports to tell all of the story.
For example, the recently-completed Aurora Festival of Lights around Phillips Park in Aurora, November 26-December 26, was not produced in the blink of an eye. The annual holiday treat with many lights, with themes, stories, portrayals, and strains relevant to Christmas, is produced by the Rotary Club of Aurora. The work starts early in the season and by definition requires many hands and strands of lights. Details are important so that the story is told with a purpose.
There are other neighborhoods with Christmas themes which provide for motor tours of the grounds to view the lighted splendor. All are delightful and all are well-attended. They require many individuals who receive little acclaim, however, achieve delight in what they provide their communities.
Driving through with the Christmas-themed backdrop includes the annual event at Mooseheart between North Aurora and Batavia just west of Illinois Route 31, and the holiday lights at Big Timber in Elgin. Special themes prevail.
• There will be celebrations for the next holiday on the horizon, New Year’ Eve and New Year’s Day. The Venue in Aurora, 21 S. Broadway in downtown, will present Joanna Connor at 10 p.m. with a champagne toast at midnight. Doors will open at 8 p.m. with the monthly Burgers, Blues, and Brews, a focus on blues music on stage. The Venue is a success story which took devoted work to make it successful.
• Private clubs open up to the public on special occasions such as The Luxemburg Club which will renew its annual New Year’s Eve prime rib dinner, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.. Complimentary champagne will be available. Calling for reservations is encouraged, 630-898-9729.
• If it is New Year’s do we still make New Year’s resolutions? According to the King Feature Syndicate, Inc., its top 10 New Year’s Resolutions include pledges to accomplish the following in order, first through 10: Exercise more; save money; eat healthier; lose weight; reduce stress; get more sleep; stick to budget; grow spiritually; travel more; learn new skill!
So there! It all sounds good with good intentions and it is easier said than done. How long will all of our New Year’s resolutions be in effect? Do we even make resolutions in this day? Perhaps we should strive to improve. Barring frustration with failure it should not hurt to improve self!
• On the same page as the top 10 New Year’s Resolutions is a cartoon by Margulies with the year 2021 in the form of a human who is wearing a mask and shows welcoming, extended, arms to the 2022 baby in a New Year’s top hat. The person of 2021 offers a comment in relief, “2021 is finally over.” The 2022 baby, who is standing in the doorway, offers a reply, “Not yet. I have to (be in) quarantine for two weeks.” Relevant and pertinent to the times we are in these months.
• Ultimately, making the best of the situation is the bottom line, perpetually.
• Clear and Concise, Week 52 Year 2: Repeat: Peace is possible if we think peace, allow peace, and want peace, instead of friction, fighting, and finger-pointing.